An update on novel association between obstructive sleep apnoea and periodontitis

Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) is a chronic multifactorial sleep-related breathing disorder characterized by a partial or total obstruction of the upper airways resulting in a reduction of airflow during sleep. Undiagnosed OSA is closely associated with consequential health problems, including diabetes and cardiac related disorders. Periodontitis is characterized by local bacterial infection within tooth supporting structures which is previously unrecognized but vastly prevalent and clinically relevant disease associated with OSA. It also adversely impacts cardiovascular health by increasing the production of cytokines, promoting atherosclerosis, which is also highly associated with OSA. Further well-structured studies are needed to explore the role of these biomarkers on the progression of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea both from the research and clinical perspective.